Fort Myers police Captain arrested for prostitution

Fort Myers police Captain Jay Rodriguez has been arrested for prostitution, official misconduct and perjury, according to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.

According to NBC2, an investigation begun in February of 2019 after a prostitution bust back in 2013.

Rodriguez was filmed by a former officer while he was working undercover for the Fort Myers Police office.

A statement from the Fort Myers Police Department was released on Facebook:

“Captain Jay Rodriguez Arrested after FDLE Investigation

On February 12, 2019, at my request, The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) began an independent investigation into allegations of serious misconduct during a 2013 undercover operation, involving FMPD Captain Jay Rodriguez. The Fort Myers Police Department cooperated fully with the investigation providing FDLE with any and all information requested. Today, the investigation concluded with the arrest of Rodriguez by FDLE for 3rd Degree Felony Official Misconduct, 3rd Degree Felony Perjury in an Official Proceeding and 1st Degree Misdemeanor Solicitation of Prostitution.

I immediately placed Rodriguez on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of the case as it proceeds through the judicial system. Although I am unable to discuss the details of the allegations or investigation due to Florida Statute 112.532, I would like to make the following statement.

Although the incident occurred 3 years prior to my arrival, I take any allegations of misconduct by our officers seriously. His actions should in no way reflect on the character and integrity of this organization or the men and women who tirelessly work every day to protect the good people of Ft Myers.

Any questions pertaining to the investigation or charges should be addressed to FDLE or the State’s Attorney Office, 12th Circuit.